The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has dismissed claims of ballot stuffing circulating online during Thursday’s by-elections.
The Commission stated that the claims are misleading and inaccurate, as it sought to reassure the public about the integrity of the voting process.
In a statement issued as polls entered the final hour in 22 voting areas, the Commission warned that the false allegations were aimed at undermining confidence in the electoral exercise.
IEBC said its ballot management procedures and security protocols make such claims practically impossible.
According to the Commission, each ballot paper carries multiple in-built security features that cannot be reproduced, and voting is conducted under strict transparency measures.
“Voting is conducted in the full presence of agents, observers and the media. Each ballot paper contains multiple security features that cannot be reproduced. We urge the public to rely on verified information from the Commission and reject falsehoods meant to undermine the Electoral process,” the statement stated.
The Commission also appealed for peace throughout the voting, counting, results announcement and post-election period.
“Let’s uphold peace, trust the process, and strengthen our democracy.”
It called on political leaders and citizens to refrain from violence or intimidation, stating that such actions have no place in a democratic society.
With less than one hour left before polling stations closed, the Commission encouraged eligible voters to turn out in large numbers and cast their ballots peacefully, stating that their participation is vital to protecting the country’s democratic values.
The disruptions triggered renewed debate over the country’s preparedness to conduct peaceful elections.
A chorus of political and civic leaders on Thursday condemned the widespread violence and disorder reported across several regions during the by-elections, calling for urgent reforms in electoral security and stronger enforcement of political tolerance.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga, and presidential hopeful, was among the first to issue a statement, terming the incidents “unacceptable” and reflective of a troubling pattern.
“The electoral violence witnessed today, and indeed in the past few weeks, is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms,” Maraga said, urging security agencies to uphold the rule of law and protect both voters and candidates.
Several leaders aligned with the ODM faction also expressed concern.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna described the day as “one of the bloodiest election days in recent history,” citing reports of violence from Kabuchai, Malava and Kasipul.
“All the violence being witnessed across the country points to a lack of preparedness to secure the safety of all involved,” he said.
Similarly, Siaya Governor James Orengo criticised what he termed as the “goonification” of elections, saying the country could not claim progress while still unable to guarantee safe and fair polls.
“We can’t be first world if, years after the 2010 Constitution, we can’t hold peaceful elections,” he remarked.
Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni expressed concern over the conduct of the by-elections, cautioning that they could serve as a precursor to the 2027 General Election.
IEBC has moved to reassure the residents and voters of a transparent voting process.
